What are Considered Juvenile Crimes?
What Age Can a Juvenile Be Charged with a Crime in Arizona?
In Arizona, a minor can be as young as 8 to be a juvenile offender. It is assumed that those younger than 8 lack criminal capacity. In most cases, minors between the ages of 8-17 that break the law will go through juvenile court. Once the minor reaches the age of 18, they will be charged as an adult. However, there are some crimes that will automatically transfer the juvenile to adult trial.
Minors that are 15, 16, and 17 can be tried as an adult. Typically to be transferred to adult court, the minor must have committed certain violent felonies which include murder, armed robbery, or forcible sexual assault. If they are tried as an adult, they will face the full adult penalties. Most juvenile cases do end up staying in juvenile court where the focus is on rehabilitation instead of punitive measures.
Expert Juvenile Crime Attorneys With Flexible Financing Plans
When your minor is arrested for a crime, you may have many thoughts and concerns swirling in your mind. Not least of those is how much an attorney is going to cost. There are the initial consultation fees, retainer fees, and hourly rates. However, at our criminal defense law firm, we prioritize our clients by providing flexible financing plans aimed at reducing the stress of costs and fees. Our goal is to make sure quality legal representation is available to all families. Having our knowledgeable lawyer on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your child’s case. In addition to flexible financing plans, we also offer a free consultation. During this consultation we will talk you through some options, assess the strength of your case, and inform you of all the costs involved. It is our goal to make you as aware as possible before entering such a challenging situation. Contact us today to get started and find out why we are the best law firm in the area!
Common Types of Juvenile Offenses
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Larceny
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Arson
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Vandalism
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Alcohol Crimes
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Underage DUI
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Drug Crimes
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Trespassing
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Assault
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Sexual Offenses & Harassment
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Violent & Weapon Crimes
Our Clients’ Testimonials
5-Star Rated Juvenile Crimes Defense Law Firm
I would like to express my gratitude to My AZ Criminal Defense Lawyers! They were incredibly professional, honest, and patient with my case. Working with them was easy, and they consistently kept me updated about my situation. Their legal staff is really committed to assisting people. Excellent legal service!
A.L.
★★★★★
Bryce Brown is exactly what you want in a criminal defense attorney. He is honest and compassionate.
A.B.
★★★★★
Great service! I was having a very tough time with my case, but the team of My AZ Criminal Defense Lawyers was very supportive throughout the entire legal process. They were very respectful and patiently answered all of my questions. In the end, we managed to succeed thanks to their professionalism and knowledge. I definitely recommend their legal services in Phoenix.
C.S.
★★★★★
Tailored Defense Strategies For Juvenile Crime Cases
Defending Against False Accusations
Being falsely accused can be a challenging and emotional experience and doesn’t guarantee you won’t be charged. However, there are strong defenses that can be built on false accusations. If you are in this circumstance, reach out to our lawyers for top-notch legal guidance, representation, and rights protection. We will work hard to find the necessary evidence to prove you are innocent and will work aggressively towards the truth.
Alibi Or Wrong Defendant
After your child is accused of a crime, you may discover that they have an alibi and wonder how this will play into their case. With a skilled lawyer, you can be confident that having an alibi will allow for a solid defense, one that with the right evidence, can have your child acquitted and bring back peace in your home once again. Reach out to our law firm today and get started with a free consultation to see how we can help you and your child!
Lack Of Intent To Commit A Crime
There are many solid defenses that our team can employ when your child is accused of a crime. In some cases, minors get caught up in actions where they commit a crime they did not intend to. In these circumstances, our lawyers at My AZ Criminal Defense will work hard to prove the lack of intent in order to have your child’s punishments reduced or even have them acquitted. Don’t wait to get the help you need, reach out to us today.
Coercion Or Duress
If your child was forced to commit a crime under threat of harm or powerful pressure they could not resist, you may have a defense option available. This defense can be especially helpful as the court realizes that juveniles have a greater chance of being influenced due to their age. If this defense is successful, charges and sentences can be reduced or, in some cases, the accusation could be dismissed altogether.
Entrapment Defense
Similarly to coercion or duress, the Arizona court sees juveniles as more vulnerable to entrapment and therefore may give more leniency in such cases. Entrapment happens when law enforcement or an authority figure induces or lures the minor into committing a crime. Our lawyers will work hard to find enough evidence to prove entrapment to make sure that your minor is not held responsible for the inappropriate use of authority of another.
Exposing Police Misconduct
Don’t let law enforcement get away with police misconduct. Whether the police used improper interrogation techniques, denied access to your child’s lawyer or guardian, or used intimidation during questioning, we can use this defense to push for a more positive outcome! Highlighting misconduct can ensure certain evidence is not used and can even have charges dropped, depending on the circumstances.
Insufficient Evidence
In many cases, there may not be enough evidence to prove that a crime occurred or that your child was the one who committed a crime. If this is the case, reach out to our lawyers right away! We will find the evidence necessary to build a strong defense. With a track record of success, you can trust that we will do everything in our power to protect the rights of your child and work towards a positive outcome.
Juvenile Offense Penalties in Arizona
Community Service Requirements
Arizona focuses on rehabilitation instead of punitive measures to protect the future of minors. However, in some cases, minors can be charged as adults. Ensure penalties such as community service by letting our lawyers fight for you minor.
Fines & Financial Penalties
Being convicted of a crime as a juvenile can come with significant financial penalties including hefty fines. Let our attorneys help negotiate a plea deal or use a defense strategy to reduce the amounts so your minor can focus on building a new future.
Restitution Or Reparation Payments
If your minor is facing a criminal charge for their actions, they may also be facing restitution or reparation payments. If so, let our team help. By creating a strong defense and advocating for your minor’s rights, we will work to reduce the amount owed.
Participation in Diversion Programs
Your minor may be required to participate in a diversion program as a penalty for his or her crime. This is often the case for juveniles in Arizona as the state wants to re-build a brighter future and teach life skills for the young people instead of punishing them.
Mandatory Counseling Sessions
Because many of the crimes are a consequence of mental health issues, substance abuse, and behavioral problems, your minor will be required to attend counseling sessions aimed at rehabilitating and providing tools for changed behavior.
Intensive Probation Terms
After being charged with a crime, minors can face intensive probation terms including regular reporting, curfews, community service, counseling or treatment, educational requirements, and more. Let our lawyers advocate for the right terms for your situation.
Juvenile Detention Sentences
One of the penalties for juvenile crimes is juvenile detention. Some individuals are not cut out for such a punishment and it could have serious psychological impacts. Arizona prioritizes rehabilitation over detention, but if your minor faces detention, we can help.
Why Choose My AZ Criminal Defense Lawyers
For Your Juvenile Crimes Case?
Aggressive Legal Defense & Thorough Evidence Review
At My AZ Criminal Defense, our lawyers are committed to giving your minor’s case the time it deserves. We will take the time needed to understand every detail and build a solid and aggressive defense by thoroughly reviewing the evidence. From there, we will advocate for your minor’s rights and work towards a positive outcome.
Effective Case Strategies For Favorable Results
Our legal team takes great pride in the work we do, fighting for the rights and freedoms of individuals. Not only that, but we have a powerful track record of successes, giving you confidence that you chose the right lawyers to represent your minor’s case. Contact us today for a consultation and find out why we are the top rated law firm in the area.
Extensive Experience In Juvenile Felony & Misdemeanor Cases
Experience legal representation from lawyers who have extensive experience in the juvenile court system. Whether your minor is facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, we have training, experience, and understanding of the legal system that ensures we will take every step towards securing the best outcome for your minor possible.
When Can A Juvenile Be Tried As An Adult In Phoenix?
First-Degree Murder
If your child is accused of first-degree murder, make sure they have the best criminal defense lawyers on their side for the best possible outcome.
Second-Degree Murder
Second-degree murder is serious and your child could be charged as an adult and face adult penalties if convicted. Don’t face this charge alone, contact us today.
Forcible Sexual Assault
Any juvenile that is 15, 16, or 17 that commits forcible sexual assault will automatically be sent to adult court resulting in hefty consequences.
Armed Robbery
The state of Arizona takes armed robbery very seriously. Juveniles accused can be charged as an adult. If your child is facing this charge, we have you covered.
Other Violent Felonies
In addition to first and second-degree murder, if a minor commits a variety of other violent felonies, they could face more serious consequences in adult court.
Chronic Felony Offenders
When you’re in need of a trusted criminal defense lawyer for your minor’s charges, contact our law firm. From first time offenders to chronic offenders, you can count on us.
Joinder Of Offenses
Don’t wait to get experienced legal help for your minor’s joinder of offenses case. Whether the case is serious and ends up in adult court or not, we can help.
Juvenile Crimes Defense Law Firm Serving Throughout Phoenix
AZ 85042, United States View Map | Get Directions
FAQs About Juvenile Crime Defense
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